A few months into the President Trump administration the U.S. foreign policy has witnessed a seismic shift. The Trump administration with its “America First” policy has disrupted decades-old alliances, openly questioning military commitments, and cosying up to unexpected partners. Trump with his policies has redefined who stood as America’s friend and who found themselves on the receiving end of his unpredictable diplomacy. Some old allies have felt abandoned, while former adversaries gain opportunities.
The Allies Who Felt the Chill
Europe: The Strain on NATO and Germany
Europe and the U.S. have been allies for decades, bound by NATO and shared democratic values. But Trump’s policy wasn’t in support, he often criticized NATO allies for not paying their “fair share,” even floating the idea of pulling the U.S. out of the alliance. Germany, once a pillar of transatlantic cooperation, has faced serious criticism from Trump on its defence spending and trade policies, leading to a chilling relationship between them. Angela Merkel, former chancellor and a prominent voice in Germany, usually known as being reserved has a public exchange with Trump. The message was clear: the old European partnership was no longer a given.
Canada: From “Best Neighbor” to Trade Rival
Even America’s closest neighbour wasn’t spared. Trump’s tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminium triggered a full-blown diplomatic spat. The usually polite Justin Trudeau pushed back, calling the move “insulting.” Trump’s response? Calling Trudeau “weak” and “dishonest.” The long-standing friendship between the two nations had turned into a tense standoff.
Japan & South Korea: Doubts Over U.S. Military Commitments
For years, Japan and South Korea relied on U.S. security guarantees to counter threats from North Korea and China. But Trump shook that foundation, demanding both countries pay more for American troop presence and even suggesting withdrawing forces if they didn’t comply. The uncertainty rattled long-standing allies who suddenly had to question whether the U.S. had their back.
Surprising Friendships and Cozying Up to Adversaries
Russia: Tough Talk, But Friendly Vibes
While the U.S. imposed sanctions on Russia over Crimea and election meddling, Trump’s admiration for Vladimir Putin raised eyebrows. At the infamous Helsinki summit, Trump publicly sided with Putin over U.S. intelligence agencies—an unprecedented moment that left Washington stunned. His desire to bring Russia back into the G7 sent shockwaves through traditional alliances.
North Korea: Love Letters and Summits
Trump’s relationship with Kim Jong-un was a rollercoaster. He went from calling him “Little Rocket Man” and threatening “fire and fury” to exchanging what he called “beautiful letters” with the North Korean dictator. The two leaders met for historic summits, breaking decades of hostility. But despite the theatrics, North Korea never gave up its nuclear ambitions, leaving many questioning what the U.S. gained from the bromance.
Saudi Arabia: Standing by MBS No Matter What
When Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi was brutally murdered inside the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, the world condemned Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS). But Trump? He stood by the Saudi leader, brushing off CIA reports linking MBS to the killing. Why? Oil, arms deals, and strategic interests in the Middle East.
America’s Foreign Policy: A New World Order?
Trump’s presidency left global relationships in a state of flux. Traditional allies found themselves questioning America’s commitment, while rivals and unpredictable leaders got unprecedented attention. Some saw Trump’s foreign policy as a needed shake-up to outdated global norms, while others feared it weakened U.S. leadership on the world stage.
As the dust settles, one question remains: Did Trump’s approach make America stronger or leave it more isolated? The answer may shape U.S. foreign policy for years to come.
